By the Numbers: The Rise of #86 in NHL History
In the long history of the NHL, certain numbers carry the weight of the game’s greatest and most magnificent legends—think of Wayne Gretzky’s number “99” or Mario Lemieux’s number “66”. But for other numbers (e.g., 86), the same level of significance has not been reached throughout the rich history of the NHL. Usually reserved for training camp invites, number “86” has—recently, though—transitioned from a statistical anomaly into a mark of elite, game-breaking talent.
Nikita Kucherov: The Standard-Bearer
The player who truly put number “86” on the map is Tampa Bay Lightning winger Nikita Kucherov. Throughout his NHL career, Kucherov has turned the number “86” into a brand for high-octane scoring. Nikita Kucherov has played over 850 games and cleared the 1,000-point hurdle. The facts are undeniable: he’s a two-time Stanley Cup Champion (2020, 2021), a multi-time Art Ross Trophy winner, and owner of both the Hart Memorial Trophy and Ted Lindsay Award. By playing at an MVP level annually, Nikita Kucherov has made number “86” a number that defenders instantly recognize.
Jack Hughes: The Modern Franchise Face
While Nikita Kucherov established the veteran prestige, New Jersey Devils forward Jack Hughes made number “86” the face of a new era. Picked first overall in 2019, Jack Hughes has already surpassed 400 games and 380 points. His 2022-23 season was historic, setting a Devils franchise record with 99 points—previously held by Patrik Elias (96 points). As a perennial All-Star and a major part of the Devils' offense, Jack Hughes is helping to prove that number “86” is a preferred digit for creative and impactful playmakers.
The Rise of #86: From Rarity to Revered
When considering the significance of number “86” in NHL history, this climb from rarity to excellence is thanks to these two NHL stars—Nikita Kucherov and Jack Hughes. And, interestingly, the legacy of number “86” is continuing to expand throughout the league:
Columbus Blue Jackets: Kirill Marchenko
Philadelphia Flyers: Joel Farabee
Chicago Blackhawks: Teuvo Teravainen
As Nikita Kucherov continues his Hockey Hall of Fame run and Jack Hughes enters his prime, they are cementing a legacy larger than the fabric on their backs. Kids no longer wear number “86” because it was the only jersey left—they wear it to play like the NHL stars who are making it legendary.